New Post Africa

Category: International

  • Iran apologises for attacks on neighbours, sets tough conditions

    Iran apologises for attacks on neighbours, sets tough conditions

    Tehran, Iran (NPA) — March 7, 2026 — Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has issued an apology to Gulf nations following Iranian missile and drone strikes on neighbouring states amid ongoing military operations in the Persian Gulf involving the United States and Israel.

    In a televised address, Pezeshkian acknowledged the attacks, pledged to halt them, and called for diplomacy over escalation. “I should apologise to the neighbouring countries that were attacked by Iran, on my own behalf,” he said, attributing the strikes to miscommunication within Iran’s military ranks.

    The president clarified that the response came after heavy assaults on Iran and the killing of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, describing the strikes as unintended escalations. He warned, however, that Iran would retaliate against any future attacks launched from external territories.

    Analysts note uncertainty over whether the apology reflects a weakened military position, as both the U.S. and Israel have claimed to have destroyed more than 80 per cent of Iran’s military capabilities, including its navy.

    Meanwhile, Pezeshkian rejected U.S. President Donald Trump’s demand for unconditional surrender, dismissing it as “a dream they should take to their grave.”

  • U.S. lawmaker condemns Taraba church burning, says Washington will act

    U.S. lawmaker condemns Taraba church burning, says Washington will act

    Lagos, Nigeria (NPA) — March 6, 2026 — Riley Moore, a member of the United States Congress tasked by President Donald Trump to investigate the alleged persecution of Christians in Nigeria, has condemned the reported burning of St. Mary’s Catholic Cathedral in Wukari, Taraba State, on March 4, 2026.

    The attack, attributed to Islamist militants, drew widespread attention after images of the destroyed church circulated on social media. In a statement on March 6, Moore offered condolences to parishioners and cited scripture: “Blessed are they who are persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”

    Moore stressed that Christians in Nigeria continue to face targeted violence, adding: “The United States has declared Nigeria a Country of Particular Concern, and we won’t stand idly by as Christians continue to face this violence.”

    Last week, the congressional committee chaired by Moore submitted recommendations to the U.S. President on measures to address what it described as systematic attacks on Christian communities in Africa’s most populous nation.

    According to the International Society for Civil Liberties and Rule of Law (Intersociety Nigeria), Islamist extremist groups in Nigeria—most notably Boko Haram and allied militants—have systematically targeted churches as part of a campaign to intimidate Christian communities, diminish their presence, and advance their goal of establishing a religiously homogenous state. Since 2009, an estimated 19,100 churches have been attacked, burned, or destroyed, averaging about 1,200 per year (roughly 100 per month).

    The primary driver behind these attacks is ideological motivation. Groups such as Boko Haram seek to impose a strict Islamist order, viewing Christian institutions as symbols of resistance to their ideology and as strategic targets for undermining community cohesion and morale.

    The Nigerian government has introduced several measures to address the violence, including military operations such as targeted airstrikes against Islamist extremist groups. However, analysts caution that these efforts remain insufficient, noting that the attacks have continued to escalate in both frequency and scale.

  • Nigeria congratulates Ghana on 69th independence, reaffirms commitment to peace, prosperity, and African unity

    Nigeria congratulates Ghana on 69th independence, reaffirms commitment to peace, prosperity, and African unity

    Abuja, Nigeria (NPA) — March 6, 2026 — Nigeria has congratulated the Republic of Ghana on the occasion of its 69th Independence Anniversary, describing the milestone as a defining moment in Africa’s liberation movement and a testament to Ghana’s enduring contributions to democracy and regional stability.

    In a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and signed by spokesperson Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, Nigeria’s Foreign Minister, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, OON, extended warm congratulations to Ghana’s Foreign Minister, Honourable Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa.

    “This historic milestone commemorates Ghana’s independence on the 6th of March in 1957, when it became the first country in sub-Saharan Africa to achieve freedom from colonial rule,” the statement read. “Ghana’s independence represented a defining moment in Africa’s liberation movement, inspiring generations of African nations, including Nigeria, to pursue sovereignty, dignity, and self-determination.”

    Nigeria underscored the unique and deeply rooted relationship between the two countries, founded on “common historical experiences, cultural affinity, and shared aspirations for peace, prosperity, and African unity.” Both nations, the statement noted, “have remained pillars of stability and democratic progress in West Africa and have consistently worked together in advancing the goals of regional cooperation within ECOWAS, the African Union, and the United Nations.”

    Highlighting decades of collaboration, the ministry pointed to strong diplomatic ties characterized by “frequent high-level engagements, strategic dialogue, and cooperation in areas including trade and investment, education, energy, defence cooperation, migration management, and cultural exchange.” The free movement of people between both countries has further strengthened “people-to-people diplomacy and fostered vibrant economic and cultural connections that reflect the spirit of African brotherhood.”

    As Ghana celebrates its independence under the theme “Building Prosperity, Restoring Hope,” Nigeria commended the resilience and creativity of the Ghanaian people in advancing national development and strengthening democratic institutions. It also recognised Ghana’s rich cultural heritage, particularly the ongoing Heritage Month celebrations, which showcase “the country’s vibrant traditions, creative industries, and cultural identity.”

    Reaffirming its commitment to deepening bilateral relations, Nigeria pledged to expand economic cooperation, enhance diplomatic consultation, and strengthen cultural and educational exchanges. “Nigeria remains confident that the longstanding partnership between Abuja and Accra will continue to grow, contributing to regional prosperity, economic integration, and the shared vision of a peaceful and united Africa,” the statement concluded.

  • Ukraine welcomes 300 soldiers home after prisoner swap with Russia

    Ukraine welcomes 300 soldiers home after prisoner swap with Russia

    Kyiv, Ukraine (NPA) — March 6, 2026 — Ukraine has secured the release of 300 soldiers and two civilians from Russian captivity following a prisoner exchange under the “500-for-500” deal negotiated in Geneva. In return, Russia received 200 of its servicemen held by Ukraine.

    President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, in a statement on Friday titled “Another 300 Ukrainian defenders are returning home from Russian captivity,” expressed joy over the development. He confirmed that the freed Ukrainians include members of the Armed Forces, the National Guard, and the State Border Guard Service, ranging from privates to officers.

    “These are warriors who defended Ukraine in Donetsk, Luhansk, Kharkiv, Zaporizhzhia, Kherson, and Mariupol. Most of them had been in captivity for more than a year, some since 2022,” Zelenskyy noted.

    The President extended gratitude to all parties involved in facilitating the exchange, particularly the United States for its mediation role. “I thank all our warriors who ensure this result by replenishing the exchange fund for Ukraine. I thank the entire team that worked to achieve this result. I am grateful to the United States for their mediation. It is important that the agreements have worked. We remember everyone, and we must bring all our people home,” he said.

  • U.S. military sinks Iranian drone carrier, vows destruction of Iranian naval power

    U.S. military sinks Iranian drone carrier, vows destruction of Iranian naval power

    Florida, U.S. (NPA) — March 6, 2026 — The United States military has announced the sinking of an Iranian naval vessel described as a drone carrier. The announcement was made by U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM), headquartered at MacDill Air Force Base in Florida.

    In a statement accompanied by video footage, CENTCOM said: “U.S. forces are not holding back in the mission to degrade the Iranian Navy. Today, an Iranian drone carrier, roughly the size of a World War II-era aircraft carrier, was struck and is now on fire.”

    The incident follows a recent operation in which U.S. forces sank another Iranian naval vessel off the coast of Sri Lanka, reportedly leaving more than 100 Iranian military personnel dead and dozens injured. The latest strike underscores escalating tensions between Washington and Tehran, with analysts warning of potential wider regional implications.

  • FBI arrests Bangladeshi national in international child exploitation case

    FBI arrests Bangladeshi national in international child exploitation case

    Lagos, Nigeria (NPA) — March 6, 2026 — The United States Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has announced the arrest of a 28-year-old Bangladeshi national, wanted since 2022 for allegedly operating an international child sexual exploitation enterprise.

    In a statement released Friday, FBI Director Kash Patel confirmed that the suspect, identified as Zobaidul Amin, was apprehended in Malaysia and subsequently transferred to the United States.

    “The FBI, working closely with our international partners, has arrested Zobaidul Amin, 28, a Bangladeshi national who has been wanted since 2022 on charges including running an international child sexual exploitation enterprise,” Patel said.

    According to the FBI, Amin was flown from Malaysia to Alaska on Thursday night, where he is expected to face formal charges later today.

    Director Patel expressed gratitude to both U.S. and international agencies for their cooperation in the operation.

    “We thank Legat Kuala Lumpur, the Government of Malaysia, and our local partners across the country for their invaluable assistance in this investigation and arrest. Special recognition goes to FBI Anchorage for their outstanding work in this case,” he added.

    Sex trafficking and child exploitation are treated as serious federal crimes in the United States. Convictions can carry penalties ranging from 15 years to life imprisonment, along with substantial fines and restitution to victims. In aggravated cases involving minors, offenders may face automatic life sentences.

  • U.S. assure of energy security amid Iran conflict

    U.S. assure of energy security amid Iran conflict

    WASHINGTON, D.C. (NPA) — March 5, 2026 — The United States government has sought to calm fears of an energy crisis as military operations with Israel against Iran intensify. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said Thursday that President Donald Trump’s administration has positioned the U.S. as the world’s largest producer of crude oil and natural gas, ensuring resilience against supply shocks.

    Leavitt noted that beyond domestic production, Washington is exploring opportunities to strengthen energy dominance by tapping newly discovered reserves in Venezuela. She added that the U.S. Development Finance Corporation will provide political risk insurance for crude carriers and cargo ships operating in the Gulf, while the U.S. Navy stands ready to escort tankers through the Strait of Hormuz if necessary. “Rest assured — President Trump’s entire energy team has been preparing for this, and they are all over it,” she said.

    Global oil markets, however, have already reacted sharply to the conflict. Crude prices surged more than 8% in early March, with gas and LNG markets also spiking amid fears of prolonged supply disruptions. Analysts warn that higher energy costs could fuel inflation worldwide, while investors have shifted toward gold and defence stocks as safe havens. Iran’s Revolutionary Guard has claimed to have shut the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global oil flows, raising concerns of sustained price volatility.

    In Nigeria, as the hostilities pushed global crude prices above $90 per barrel, petrol prices rose to ₦824–₦880 per litre, with regional variations based on transport and supply chain costs.

    Economic forecasters, including Oxford Economics, project that the war could last weeks or months, keeping energy markets unstable. Morgan Stanley cautioned that inflationary pressures may constrain central banks, limiting their ability to raise interest rates. The longer the conflict and Gulf disruption persist, the more severe the global economic fallout is expected to be.

  • Middle East War: Two coalitions emerge — Israel’s President

    Middle East War: Two coalitions emerge — Israel’s President

    LAGOS, NIGERIA (NPA) — March 5, 2026 — Amid escalating military operations by the United States and Israel against the Islamic Republic of Iran, the President of Israel, Isaac Herzog, declared on Thursday that the conflict has given rise to two opposing coalitions in the Middle East.

    In a video message monitored by our correspondents, Herzog stated: “Two coalitions have emerged in the Middle East. One of terror, with Tehran at its centre. And one of hope, with Muslims, Christians, and Jews living together in peace. This coalition of hope, coexistence, and peace will prevail.”

    Israel’s objectives in its current strikes on Iran are twofold: to cripple Iran’s nuclear and missile programs and to weaken or remove the ruling regime. Coordinated closely with the United States, these attacks represent the most direct attempt yet to reshape Iran’s political and military landscape. Targets have included nuclear facilities, missile sites, and command centres, intending to reduce Iran’s capacity to arm regional proxies such as Hezbollah and deter future assaults on Israeli territory.

    Beyond military deterrence, analysts suggest Israel’s broader strategic goal is regime change in Tehran. The killing of senior Iranian officials, including Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, underscores this ambition. By destabilising Iran’s leadership, Israel hopes to pave the way for a government less hostile to its existence and regional stability. This marks a dramatic escalation from defensive operations toward actively reshaping Iran’s political order.

    Iran has responded with avalanches of missiles and drone strikes across countries in the region, inflicting significant damage and deaths in the Gulf.

  • Middle East War: Israel intensifies strikes on Tehran as U.S. Senate backs Trump’s war authority

    Middle East War: Israel intensifies strikes on Tehran as U.S. Senate backs Trump’s war authority

    JERUSALEM, ISRAEL (NPA) — March 4, 2026 — Israel carried out extensive airstrikes on Tehran Thursday, targeting facilities it said were linked to Iranian authorities, after missile attacks forced millions of Israelis into bomb shelters.

    The U.S.–Iran war, now in its sixth day, has spread beyond the Gulf into Asia, disrupting global markets and leaving thousands of tourists and residents scrambling to leave the region.

    In Washington, Republican senators late Wednesday blocked a measure that would have required congressional approval for continued military action against Iran. The move leaves President Donald Trump with broad authority to direct the campaign as fighting intensifies.

    U.S. Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth assured Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz in a phone call: “Keep going until the end — we’re with you,” according to Israel’s defence ministry.

    Iran’s foreign minister condemned the sinking of the frigate Dena off Sri Lanka, which killed at least 80 sailors. He said the vessel, visiting under the Indian navy’s invitation, was struck without warning in international waters, calling the attack an “atrocity at sea” and warning Washington would “bitterly regret” the precedent.

    General Kioumars Heydari of the Revolutionary Guard Corps vowed on state television: “We have decided to fight Americans wherever they are. We do not care how long the war lasts.”

    Later Thursday, the Guards claimed responsibility for striking a U.S. tanker in the northern Gulf, leaving the vessel ablaze. State media reported that the force declared that during wartime, passage through the Strait of Hormuz would remain under Iran’s control.

    Later on Thursday, the Revolutionary Guards said they ​had hit a U.S. tanker in the northern part of the Gulf, and the vessel was on fire. The Guards said in the statement carried by state media that in time of ​war, passage through the Strait of Hormuz would be under the control of the Islamic Republic.

  • WTO and EIB forge partnership to boost sustainable trade and investment

    WTO and EIB forge partnership to boost sustainable trade and investment

    Luxembourg — March 4, 2026 (NPA) — The World Trade Organisation (WTO) Secretariat and the European Investment Bank (EIB) Group have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen sustainable trade and investment worldwide, with a particular focus on developing countries.

    The agreement, signed by WTO Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala and EIB Group President Nadia Calviño during the EIB Group Forum in Luxembourg, establishes the EIB-WTO Trade and Investment Facilitation Initiative. This initiative will support regulatory reforms, investment planning, and project preparation aimed at unlocking new opportunities for developing economies.

    The partnership builds on the Investment Facilitation for Development Agreement, endorsed by 128 WTO members, which sets the first global framework to ease foreign direct investment flows. Under the MoU, the WTO and EIB will collaborate to assess countries’ needs, design reform strategies, and mobilise funding — including blended finance and private capital — to support investment projects.

    In its pilot phase, the initiative will target selected African countries, focusing on critical sectors such as green and digital transitions, health, education, sustainable growth, and job creation.

    “This partnership aligns policy reform efforts with catalytic financing, and thus promises to unlock private investment in strategic sectors, beginning with a pilot group of African countries,” said WTO Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala.

    EIB Group President Nadia Calviño emphasised Europe’s commitment to fair global trade, noting that the agreement “will help partner countries attract more and better-quality investment, while supporting reform and creating new trading opportunities for EU businesses.”

    Beyond financing, the WTO and EIB will also collaborate on research and analysis of global trade and investment trends to guide policy decisions.